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Frosted branch angiitis (FBA) is a rare form of retinal vasculitis. Four case series and an extensive literature review of 236 cases were conducted to clarify the characteristics of this rare condition. Case series and literature review. An analysis of the reported cases revealed that a majority (54.6%) developed FBA in the presence of an underlying disease, with recurrence and complications requiring surgical intervention being rare. The frequency of bilateral occurrence (55.0%) and prevalence in female patients (45.0%) were noted to be lower than previously reported. In general, idiopathic FBAs are more likely to be bilateral and diagnosed at a younger age than secondary FBAs. In idiopathic FBA, fundus involvement is more generalized, exudates tend to be more translucent, and extensive retinal hemorrhage tends to be less frequent. However, there were no differential characteristic fundus features that clearly distinguished idiopathic FBA from secondary FBA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obstructive eustachian tube dysfunction is a common pathology, generally accepted as the underlying cause for chronic ear diseases. Eustachian tube dilation has shown promising results in randomized controlled trials, but is a costly procedure. The aim of the current study was to assess the feasibility of transnasal balloon dilatation of the eustachian tube with an endovascular balloon in the context of ease of use, maneuverability, and safety. Methods: Clinical pilot study carried out at a university tertiary care facility. In total, twelve patients, were included over a period of 6 months. All patients underwent tympanoplasty or tympanomastoidectomy surgeries. Eustachian tube dilation was carried out transnasal using an endovascular balloon. A computed tomography was carried out after surgery to assess for any potential damages and compared to preoperative imaging studies. Postoperative endoscopy was performed intraoperatively and at follow up to assess for any potential damages. Results: All eustachian tube dilations were carried out successfully. No severe adverse events were noted during the procedure, in the postoperative period, or on imaging studies. Minor adverse events such as mild intraoperative bleeding was managed in a routine fashion. Conclusions: Balloon dilation of the eustachian tube with the endovascular balloon was feasible and safe in all cases. It is likely a more cost-effective alternative to commercially available balloons with similar designs and specifications. Trial registration The study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov; NCT04809753, initial release February 24th, 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]